Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your personal and educational background, and how you decided to become a lawyer?
Hi, I am Sonal Gupta, an advocate practising at the Supreme Court of India, New Delhi. While I tend to describe things through poetry, likewise, reciting a poem — which is a preface to my chronicle, delineating my individuality in labouring for ameliorating the society, which I primarily reaped on comprehending the Bhagavata Purana.
“Verse of Puranas pricked my skull, carving a silhouette of my impulse,
Convinced me to indulge, when I encapsulated Sage Vyas’s words,
As in Bhagavata, he blared the Kaliyuga’s curse,
Foreseeing that righteousness will submerge under demon’s hearse;
Oh being veracious, ‘cause now we are enduring the acts so barbarous;
So, sweaty worried me galloped to the legal terrain,
Ploughing for ways in the soil of laws and legislations,
Led to an exploration of fruit near the Constitution’s basin;
Now, visioning to sow the seeds of this fruit for a new creation,
By axing through my goal tool of judicial administration,
Digging the novelties to rescue the rights from Devil’s legation.”
I strongly believe in the ideology of “making better.” It was during a talk by Laxmi Aggarwal, an acid attack survivor, that I realized how unaware many people are of their rights. This encounter deeply affected me and prompted me to consider advocacy as a means to interact with and educate the community.
I am committed to making a positive impact on people’s lives by spreading awareness about the law and empowering those who may not have the resources or knowledge to protect their rights. My goal is to interact with the common man and help them understand the legal system so that they can navigate it with confidence and assert their rights.
Through advocacy, I believe that by educating people (be it may, the clients, or the people whom I meet during the course of the day) about their rights, we can make a tangible difference in society and work towards creating a more just and equitable world.
What motivated you to pursue a career in law, and what do you enjoy most about being an advocate?
I have always been drawn towards spirituality and morality, and it was during my eleventh grade while painting a portrait of Lord Krishna, I found myself captivated by the Bhagavata Purana. As I delved deeper into the teachings of the Purana, I became increasingly aware of the deteriorating moral values and ethical standards in our society, particularly in today’s age.
Witnessing the growing instances of brutality against women, religious conflicts, and the exclusion of elders propelled me towards the path of law and legislation. I strongly believe that law can maintain justice and ethicality in the world, and this belief drove me to pursue my legal education at Symbiosis Law School, Hyderabad.
As I continue to grow and learn as a legal professional, I relish every opportunity to expand my knowledge and expertise in the field of law. One experience that stands out to me is watching a proceeding at the Supreme Court where a Hon’ble Judge corrected an advocate’s use of the term “clubbing” of matters, instead using “consolidation” for matters from different High Courts. It was a small but significant lesson that I continue to carry with me in my practice.
Moreover, my boss, my mentor and a guide, Mr. V. Chitambaresh, is not just a Senior Advocate and retired Judge from the High Court of Kerala. He’s like the Gandalf of civil law, wielding his legal wisdom like a magical staff.
Let’s face it, civil law can be a beast to tackle, especially for us recent graduates and law students. It’s like trying to decipher a secret code written by a mischievous lawyer. But thanks to Mr. Chitambaresh’s mentorship, I feel like I’ve been handed a decoder ring that brings clarity to even the most convoluted cases. I half-expect him to give me a high-five and say, “You cracked the case, Sherlock!”
In the courtroom, as an advocate, what I enjoy is to proudly channel the teachings of my legal Yoda, Mr. Chitambaresh. I can almost hear his voice in my head, reminding me to use “the force of precedent” and never underestimate the power of a well-crafted argument.
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your decision to write the longest poem on the Indian Constitution?
“To disseminate the Constitution to every stratum of society,
A book of poetic forms could serve as a tool of great variety.
For a language that’s poetic and expressive,
Can make the Constitution more accessible and impressive.”
Inspiration lies in the opening paragraph of the book — and yes, I view constitutional literacy is of nth importance, and I strongly believe in its significance. However, the Constitution of India is often perceived as a dull legal document, making it challenging for the average person to comprehend and appreciate. This lack of understanding can lead to various social, economic, and political issues, causing grave concerns.
During a conversation with an NGO worker, I was disheartened to learn about an elderly woman living on the streets of Jaipur, Rajasthan, who was abandoned by her own child. It made me contemplate how the situation would have been different if the woman was aware of her rights under the Constitution and could have sought legal assistance.
To bridge this gap and raise awareness, I took it upon myself to create “Verse, Not just Laws” — a poem on the Constitution of India, designed to be sung and enjoyed by students, citizens, and anyone who wishes to learn.
Trust me, it’s worth it. I mean, who wouldn’t want to impress their friends with some constitutional trivia at the next party? “Hey, did you know that the Indian Constitution has 448 articles and 12 schedules? Yeah, I’m kind of a big deal.”
How did you go about researching the Constitution and deciding on the format and structure of the poem?
When tasked with writing a poem on the Constitution of India, I found that consulting the Bare Act of the Constitution was a valuable resource. My goal was to convey the essence of the Constitution in a clear and simple manner, so that readers could connect with it on a deeper level.
To achieve this, I decided to use an abstract and dramatic format for my poem, which allowed me to incorporate metaphors and similes that would help to illuminate the key themes of the Constitution. By using vivid imagery and emotive language, I hoped to create a powerful and memorable experience for the reader.
As I wrote, I focused on exploring different aspects of the Constitution, such as the fundamental rights, the directive principles of state policy, and the role of the judiciary. By using specific examples and anecdotes, I aimed to show how the Constitution has played a vital role in protecting the rights of citizens of country.
For example: A snippet from Verse, Not Just Laws on ‘Right to Freedom Of Religion (Article 25 to 28 of Constitution of India)’
“In every human heart, there lies a spark,
A glimmer of hope that lights up the dark,
And in Article 25, we find the key,
To unlock the door and set faith free.
Like a butterfly, emerging from its shell,
Faith must be allowed to grow and dwell,
Article 26 is like a bird, soaring high and free,
Religious institutions can maintain their identity,
Without threat to public health or order,
With autonomy to manage and be the owner.
Article 27, a line that’s clear and bright,
To prevent conflict and fear, in the light,
Of unity and peaceful coexistence,
No funding for religious mandate, a strong insistence.
And in Article 28, a final thought,
A secular education, we must be taught,
Like a canvas, free of all taint,
Education must be free to paint.”
What challenges did you face while writing the poem, and how did you overcome them?
Viewing myself as a legal poet, using my creative skills to promote legal literacy and important legal agendas. So, when I was writing an abstract poem on the Indian Constitution, I found difficulty, particularly with the lengthy Part V – The Union and the closing section, Part XXII – Short Title, Commencement, Authoritative Text in Hindi and Repeals.
Apart from this, the major challenge was to keep the rhythm of the poem intact throughout — why? Simple, it is easy to intonate.
But I rose to the challenge, keeping the rhythm flowing and adding some exciting similes to keep things interesting. I mean, who knew that the Indian Constitution could be so poetic? It’s like the law and literature had a baby, and it’s beautiful!
What message do you hope to convey through your poem, and how do you think it can contribute to promoting awareness and understanding of the Indian Constitution?
The story of the elderly woman living on the streets of Jaipur serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of constitutional literacy. It shows that the Constitution is a living and breathing entity that directly affects the lives of every Indian citizen.
Through the medium of poetry, I wish to make the Constitution more approachable and engaging. In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing world, it’s more critical than ever for individuals to understand their rights and responsibilities under the Constitution. This book provides an important tool for promoting civic engagement and democratic participation, enabling more people to take an active role in shaping the future of their country.
Overall, this book is a valuable addition to the field of constitutional literacy and a powerful demonstration of the potential of poetry to educate and inspire. It is my hope that it will reach a wide audience and encourage more people to engage with the Constitution, gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation for this vital document that forms the foundation of Indian society.
How has your experience of writing the poem changed your relationship with the Constitution, and how do you think it can inspire others to engage with this important document?
Singing the Constitution daily can be far more enjoyable than mindlessly humming Bollywood tunes. “Verse, Not Just Laws” breathes life into legislation, infusing it with emotion and making it accessible to everyone. For me, every provision under the Constitution that remained untouched until now can be transformed into a melodic masterpiece.
This unique approach bridges the gap between legal jargon and everyday life, inviting people to engage with the Constitution in a whole new way. It’s like turning a mundane legal text into a symphony of knowledge and inspiration. Who knew that constitutional literacy could be so melodious?
How has your world record achievement impacted your personal and professional life, and what advice do you have for others who aspire to achieve similar feats of creativity and achievement?
I am immensely grateful to the Almighty, whose presence and guidance have played a pivotal role in enabling me to envision and achieve this remarkable feat. Along this journey, I am indebted to my parents, friends, teachers/professors, and mentors for their unwavering support, motivation, and well wishes. Additionally, I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to the esteemed authorities of the World Book of Records, London for recognizing the value and significance of my work, deeming it worthy of qualifying as a world record. Their validation has truly humbled me.
As far as the impact (both on personal and professional level) is concerned, I’ve a crisp answer.
On a personal level, I find immense satisfaction in being able to share my skills and contribute to society in a unique and meaningful manner. Through “Verse, Not Just Laws,” I have developed a deep understanding of the provisions within the Constitution of India, allowing me to have them at my fingertips. In fact, if the need arises, I can even recite a paragraph from this poem, adding an impressive touch to my arguments presented before a judge.
Professionally, this approach has given me an edge by integrating poetry with the legal realm. It allows me to present legal concepts in a creative and engaging way, capturing the attention of both judges and fellow legal professionals. It has become a powerful tool for making my arguments more memorable and impactful.
How do you see the role of poetry in promoting social and political awareness and change, and how can we encourage more people to engage with this powerful form of expression?
Before I embarked on the journey of crafting “Verse, Not Just Laws,” my focus was on promoting legal literacy through the medium of poetry. I firmly believe that even the slightest nuances can make a remarkable impact.
My poetic creations have found their home on various platforms, including esteemed websites such as the Voice of Youth by UNICEF. I am particularly proud of my poems addressing the hijab controversy, titled “A Veil not to Unveil,” and the rights of older individuals, encapsulated in “A Right for a Wrinkled Face.” These thought-provoking pieces have been published on the Indus WW Blog.
Additionally, I delved into the realm of the legal recognition of transgender individuals with my poem, “An Ablaze in Gloomy Wood(s),” which garnered attention on the Elysian Blog. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, I also penned a heartfelt piece titled “Mortals in Immortal,” shedding light on the rights of the deceased. This poem found its place on the UNICEF Voice of Youth Blog.
Looking ahead, I am excited to embark on a new venture — a dedicated legal poetry blog that explores ongoing legal agendas, significant constitutional matters, and more, all presented in a poetic manner. I firmly believe that the power of rhythm and verse has the ability to captivate and engage audiences, making the understanding of law and legal news accessible to everyone. It is indeed an undertaking that I eagerly anticipate.
Coming onto encouraging people to engage with poems, AH! I think engaging with poetry is not something that can be demanded; it is an experience to be relished. Society needs to recognize and appreciate the fact that poetry is one of the easiest and fastest ways to convey messages. Poems have a unique ability to communicate complex ideas concisely and efficiently, making them highly accessible.
When it comes to legal poetry, it holds a distinct advantage. It can provide readers with an initial understanding of legal theories and concepts in a readily comprehensible and expedient manner. This makes legal poetry an appealing medium that captures the interest of a wide audience. Whether it’s legal poetry or poetry on any other subject, poems possess the inherent power to convey comprehensive knowledge while being engaging and absorbing.
Your poem covers a lot of ground, from the preamble to the various articles and amendments of the Constitution. Was there any particular section that you found especially interesting or meaningful to write about?
Doubtless, the tricky, tiring, and critical but oh-so-exciting Part III of the Constitution of India – the Fundamental Rights! It’s like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded while juggling flaming torches. A challenge I willingly took upon myself, because why not?
But let me tell you, amidst the complexities and legal jargon, I had a blast infusing some exciting metaphors into those fundamental rights. It was like giving them a breath of fresh air, allowing them to break free from the tight fist of legal language. Who knew that the provisions could be so melodious?
I could almost hear the Fundamental Rights humming in harmony, dancing to their own rhythm. It was like a Bollywood movie where even the serious rights had their own catchy tunes and energetic dance sequences. Picture the Right to Equality doing a twirl, the Right to Freedom strutting its stuff, and the Right against Exploitation doing a sassy shimmy. It’s a spectacle you wouldn’t want to miss!
In this poetic journey, even the trickiest and most critical parts of the Constitution can become a joyful celebration of our rights and freedoms!
What advice would you give aspiring poets or writers interested in tackling ambitious projects like this one?
As someone who is relatively new to both the realms of poetry and law, my experiences and insights may be modest, but I offer my advice in a humble and straightforward manner.
For aspiring poets and writers taking on ambitious projects, here is my advice:
(i) Choose the best for you, whatever you like, pick it up.
(ii) Understand it.
(iii) Break down the project into manageable steps.
(iv) Seek feedback and collaborate with others.
(v) Stay committed and persevere through obstacles.
(vi) Enjoy the journey and embrace the transformative experience.
Now go, create something extraordinary!
When can we expect the release of the book and how can it be available to our readers?
Ah, the release of the book! Now, I must confess, I don’t have a crystal ball or a time machine to give you an exact release date, but fear not! Just like a mischievous lawyer dropping hints in court, I’ll give you a sneak peek.
Picture this: A star-studded event, with red carpets, dazzling lights, and paparazzi going crazy. As the clock strikes midnight on a magical day, the book will make its grand entrance, sweeping readers off their feet like a Bollywood dance number. You won’t be able to resist the temptation to grab a copy and join the literary party!
OH! NOTHING AS THAT SOUGHT OF.
But wait, you’ll find yourself hitting the refresh button on your browser, eagerly awaiting the moment when you can dive into the world of “Verse, Not Just Laws.”
So, dear readers, buckle up for an exciting ride till the end of this year. The release of this book will be a spectacle worth waiting for, filled with laughter, and legal wisdom!
Source: Lawctopus
